Target recalls Up & Up baby wipes nationwide after FDA finds dangerous Burkholderia bacteria
Target has recalled select Up & Up Fragrance Free and Fresh Cucumber baby wipes nationwide after FDA testing found Burkholderia cepacia complex and Burkholderia gladioli contamination; consumers should stop using affected wipes and return them for a full refund.
Key takeaways
- What: Voluntary nationwide recall of select Up & Up Fragrance Free and Up & Up Fresh Cucumber baby wipes.
- Why: FDA testing identified Burkholderia cepacia complex (Bcc) and Burkholderia gladioli after consumer complaints of discoloration — see the FDA recall notice.
- Risk: These bacteria can cause localized skin infections in healthy people and life‑threatening infections in newborns, infants and immunocompromised people.
- Action: Stop using the wipes and return them to any Target store for a full refund; details on returns and lot verification are available on Target’s recall page.
Main content
What happened
Target announced a voluntary nationwide recall of specific Up & Up Fragrance Free and Up & Up Fresh Cucumber Scented Baby Wipes after customers reported discoloration in some packages. FDA testing of samples identified contamination with Burkholderia cepacia complex (Bcc) and Burkholderia gladioli, bacteria that can cause serious infections in vulnerable people.
What products are included
The recall covers multiple package sizes of two Up & Up baby wipe lines. Treat packages that match these product names and sizes as potentially affected unless you verify lot codes with the FDA list:
- Up & Up Fragrance Free Baby Wipes: 20‑count, 72‑count, 216‑count, 800‑count and 1,200‑count packages. Manufactured between Nov. 7, 2025 and May 5, 2026. Expiration dates range from May 10, 2028 through Nov. 5, 2028.
- Up & Up Fresh Cucumber Scented Baby Wipes: 72‑count, 216‑count and 800‑count packages. Manufactured Dec. 29–30, 2025. Expiration dates range June 29, 2028 through June 30, 2028.
A complete list of affected UPCs, lot codes and package details appears in the FDA recall notice. Consumers can compare codes to confirm whether a specific package is part of the recall. (Full lot list.)
Why the recall was issued
Target began the recall after customers reported discoloration in some baby wipe packages. Those complaints prompted FDA laboratory testing, which found Burkholderia cepacia complex and Burkholderia gladioli in samples. Target described the action as taken “out of an abundance of caution” and emphasized it “cares deeply about the safety” of guests and products.
Target described the action as taken “out of an abundance of caution” and said it “cares deeply about the safety” of guests and products.
About the bacteria and health risks
Burkholderia cepacia complex (Bcc) and Burkholderia gladioli are environmental bacteria found in soil and water. In healthy people they often do not cause serious illness, but when they contaminate products used on skin they can cause infections.
- Healthy people: If contaminated wipes touch skin that has cuts, scrapes or irritations, localized skin infections can occur.
- Newborns, infants and the immunocompromised: These groups are at greatest risk. The bacteria can spread into the bloodstream and cause sepsis or pneumonia, which can be life‑threatening.
Target and the manufacturer have received consumer reports of product discoloration, skin irritation, eye irritation and infections that may be linked to the wipes; those reports are under investigation. The FDA advises anyone who used the wipes and experiences symptoms to see a health care provider and mention possible exposure to B. cepacia complex or B. gladioli — see the FDA recall notice for guidance.
Who made the wipes
The FDA’s notice names Sapro Temizlik Urunleri as the third‑party manufacturer. Target is working with Sapro and the FDA to investigate consumer complaints and the contamination. The recall is voluntary and is being conducted with FDA oversight.
What consumers should do now
If you have these wipes at home, take the following steps immediately:
- Stop using any Up & Up Fragrance Free or Up & Up Fresh Cucumber baby wipes in the package sizes noted above unless you confirm the lot is not affected (Target recall page).
- Return for refund: Bring them to any Target store for a full refund. Target will accept returns even if the package is opened or partially used (Target recall page).
- Online purchases: If you bought wipes from Target.com, call Target.com Guest Services at 1‑800‑591‑3869. For in‑store purchases, contact Target Guest Relations at 1‑800‑440‑0680 (available 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Central Time).
- Health symptoms: If a child or other user develops skin redness, rash, eye irritation, fever, trouble breathing, poor feeding in infants, or other signs of infection after using the wipes, contact a health care provider and mention possible exposure to B. cepacia complex or B. gladioli. Seek immediate care for severe signs such as high fever, severe lethargy, or difficulty breathing.
Regulatory and company actions so far
Voluntary recall: The recall is voluntary by Target and coordinated with the FDA. Target has posted recall notices on its Product Recalls and Help pages and is directing customers to the FDA for detailed lot information. The company is continuing to investigate the issue with the manufacturer and the FDA.
For official recall details see Target’s recall page and the FDA recall notice.
Implications
Economic impact: The recall affects a widely used private‑label product sold nationwide. Refunds and inventory removal will carry direct costs for Target and its supplier, and may increase scrutiny on quality controls for high‑volume, low‑cost products.
Political and regulatory consequences: Lawmakers and regulators will watch Target’s response. Expect calls for clearer tracking of manufacturing sites and stronger enforcement of product safety rules to prevent cross‑border manufacturing issues from affecting U.S. consumers.
Public health and social effects: Parents and caregivers should be alert — the recall targets products used mainly on infants and young children. Health care providers may see increased calls and visits from concerned families; hospitals and pediatric clinics will need clear guidance on testing and treatment if infections are suspected.
Cultural and consumer trust: High‑profile recalls can erode confidence in house‑brand products. Consumers who prioritize personal responsibility and safe markets may demand better labeling, more transparent supply chains and stronger private accountability from retailers and suppliers.
Practical steps for families
Check your home supply now. Compare UPCs and lot codes to the FDA list. If you are unsure, do not use the wipes and return them for a refund. Monitor infants and vulnerable family members for signs of infection and contact a medical professional if symptoms appear.
Reporting and follow‑up
Target and the FDA are continuing their investigation. Consumers who experienced adverse events after using these wipes can report complaints to the FDA’s MedWatch program and to Target. For immediate questions about refunds or returns, contact Target Guest Relations at 1‑800‑440‑0680 or Target.com Guest Services at 1‑800‑591‑3869.
For authoritative recall information and the full lot list consult the FDA recall notice and Target’s recall page.
